Workers’ compensation systems are a two-way street that attempt to give some peace of mind to both the employer and the employee. The employee receives some assurance that the medical costs for any injury he receives in the course of his employment will be covered, while the employer receives some assurance that the employee will not sue the employer in tort for the injury. The system is not foolproof, however, and both the employer and the employee can engage in behavior designed to circumvent or take advantage of the system. In such a situation, it would be wise to contact an expert workers’ compensation attorney at 617-787-3700.
According to Texas state union leaders and state lawmakers, Texas cities are systematically denying workers’ compensation to firefighters who have cancer. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, over 90% of the workers’ comp claims over the past 6 years made by firefighters with cancer have been denied. Although nearly 65% of these denials are overturned on appeal, firefighters rarely choose to deal with the administrative process and hardship of appealing the denial of a claim.
This is especially controversial considering there is a Texas state law that requires the government to presume that firefighters’ cancer is the result of exposure to deadly carcinogens while on the job. However, city officials have allegedly been using an official memo that narrows the state law to 3 specific types of cancer. According to union leaders, this memo flies in the face of scientific research linking firefighting to a wide variety of cancers.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while on the job, you may be entitled to significant monetary relief. Act now and contact one of our expert workers’ compensation attorneys here at the Law Offices of Gilbert R. Hoy, Jr. and Affiliates to discuss your potential claim. Call our Massachusetts injury lawyer specialists today at 617-787-3700 or email us at info@gilhoylaw.com for your free and private consultation. Your needs are our top priority!